by David Chapman
Staff Writer
For supporters of the St. Johns River, the Mayor’s Environmental Luncheon Friday was a time for recognition.
In his last such event in office, Mayor John Peyton was named the St. Johns Riverkeeper’s “River Advocate of the Year” for his leadership in developing The River Accord and his efforts in legislation for water conservation and protection.
Peyton told a crowded room at the Main Library Conference Center about the river’s importance for economic development in Northeast Florida.
He urged those attending to continue supporting efforts to preserve and protect the natural resource, including the stormwater fee used for funding water-quality improvement programs.
“You better defend it,” he told the group, citing claims from political candidates who have advocated repealing the fee.
Other efforts, such as septic tank removal and increasing river education and accessibility, will continue to pay dividends in the quality of life for Northeast Florida residents and businesses who want to relocate to the region, he said.
Peyton said that even amid funding challenges, it would be a shame to allow the river to be a “whipping post” for budget cuts.
St. Johns Riverkeeper Neil Armingeon was presented the “Mayor’s Award,” which is given annually to an individual or group that demonstrates dedicated work in restoring, enhancing and preserving the environment.
The river advocate said he was caught off guard by the award and was honored to accept it on behalf of others with Riverkeeper.
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Award recipients
Awards were given during the 20th Annual Mayor’s Environmental Luncheon Friday at the Main Library. The annual event highlights accomplishments of the environmental community and honors those who dedicated efforts throughout the year.
Mayor’s Award
Neil Armingeon, St. Johns Riverkeeper
Environmental Protection Board
Industry Award
Vistakon Inc.
Government Award
Duval County Master Naturalist Program
Greenscape of Jacksonville
Canopy Award (for outstanding individuals)
Tracey Arpen Jr. and Fred Pope
Keep Jacksonville Beautiful
Leadership Achievement Award
Gordon Boyer
Individual Award
Paul “Dunncan” Pullen
Kate and Kenny Rouh
Business Award
BB&T Downtown Jacksonville
Elementary School Award
Hendricks Avenue Elementary School
Middle School Award
Kirby Smith Middle School
High School Award
Alden Road Exceptional Student Center
College/University Award
Florida Coastal School of Law
Organization Award
WJCT
Government Award
Duval County Public Schools
North Florida Land Trust
Charles Atkinson
Sierra Club, Northeast Florida Group
Guardian and Defender of the Environment –
the “Live Oak” Award
Tom Larson
St. Johns Riverkeeper
River Advocate of the Year
Mayor John Peyton
River Educator of the Year
Kimberly Harrison
River Volunteer of the Year
Deborah Lamir
Tree Hill Nature Center
T.R.E.E. Award
Lynne Paradise